From concerned parents of students at Forest Lakes Elementary School:
Dear Editor,
In April 2010, a Survey initiated by the Principal of Forest Lakes Elementary School, was sent to the FLES Community regarding the YWCA before and after school program. No reason for the survey was provided.
In May 2010, a PTA meeting was held, and the results of the survey were presented to the small group in attendance. The Principal explained that she initiated the survey due to complaints from parents whose children did not attend FLES at the time. The majority of the results from the survey were in favor of maintaining the YWCA as the current before and after care provider. A survey was more recently conducted by the YWCA, and again the results were overwhelmingly in favor of maintaining the YWCA. In addition, YWCA Parents circulated a Petition in support of the YWCA.
No communication was sent notifying FLES community that the results and possible changes of the above survey, were going to be discussed. Fortunately a small group of YWCA parents were notified by word of mouth and were able to attend.
At the October 2011 PTA meeting, the Principal announced she arbitrarily formed a committee to determine the fate of the before and after care provider at FLES. During the meeting, Parents objected to said committee, regarding their credibility and qualifications to make this decision which will greatly impact the future of our children currently enrolled in this program. One concern was a lack of representation of the YWCA Parents. The concerns were dismissed by the Principal.
At the November 2011 PTA meeting, parents were asked to give feedback regarding the YWCA program to the committee members. This feedback was not sufficiently noted, and when this was addressed to the Principal and the committee it was met with indifference.
There was a previous PTA meeting in September, which did not discuss the YWCA program. At this meeting, a YWCA parent in attendance, requested the Principal use all communication resources available to ensure all impacted parties were aware of meetings and updates regarding the process and possible changes. This was ignored.
Finally, on December 22nd, a specific communication regarding the Daycare Selection Committee was sent to the FLES community. This was predicated by the growing concern and outcry to the Harford County Board of Education, based upon the overall uneasiness of the small group of YWCA Parents that were able to attend these under communicated PTA meetings, on short notice.
Last week, a group of parents met with the Principal to discuss the Dec. 22nd letter and concern that the process of determining the fate of their children was virtually completed. This was the first communication sent to the FLES community that specifically outlined the Process, and that the first 4 steps out of a 6 step process had been completed. The 5th step is to secretly determine the next Provider. During the meeting Parents requested to review the documentation, and to attend the secret determining meeting. We were denied both.
We have a number of concerns regarding the entire process, which include;
A Lack of Communication
Credibility
Overall Integrity of the Process
In closing, we want our concerns to be addressed, a Public and Fair Process, and Open Communication, and the YWCA to remain the daycare Provider at Forest Lakes Elementary School.
Sincerely,
Bridgid Nesbit
Brian Nesbit
Judy Schreck
Tammy Miller
This is a big deal. This decision will effect my child and my finances and yet I seem to have no voice in the decision making process. All we parents are asking for is a fair process. A vote would surely make things fair and it would surely make us feel that the principal had our best interest at heart. I just cannot understand why the pricipal is so set against a vote.
We the parents have not been given the opportunity to express our thoughts or give any input other than a survey that was conducted last year by the principal. The PTA meetings are not an appropriate venue to discuss this matter. I, as a parent utilizing the Y program should have been asked my opinion and if I had any concerns. Also, the concerns given by the principal are not reason enough to change the current before/after school program.
I’m sorry to hear about your issue. We have many of the same issues with the principal at my daughter’s school, too. It seems like the principals in this county just really don’t care about the kids and the families anymore.
Hi Arlene,
I think if enough parents get involved and come together, even from other schools, it will take all the power from the Principal. I hope tons of people respond to this message because it is not right! They are messing with our sons and daughters lives…
We have been fighting this for some time now. And even gone through everyone at the Harford County Board of Education.
I’m sorry to hear that you go through the same issues with your school. But, I am so glad that you responded.. Maybe parents of Harford County can come together to make changes that are greatly needed.
It is truly sad that this situation has escalated to this degree. For us parents involved it is so plain to see what is the right thing to do here. The majority has spoken and are being ignored. Thank you so much to the Dagger for bringing our situation to attention. We only want our voices to be heard and for the leader of the very school that is supposed to be teaching our children to make the right choice and really look out for their best interests.
My son goes to the YWCA at fles and loves the program. Norma and the rest of the staff are excellent and have greatly helped my 5 year old become comfortable going to a new school. I know it will break his heart if they pull this program and may break my wallet. The majority of the parents who use and pay for the YWCA want to keep the program in place! I do not understand why we do not get to vote on this! It is so sad the ones who will suffer the most if the program gets pulled is our children. Isn’t the school system supposed to care for our children and what is in their best interest?
Don’t mess with the principal. In Harford County they are little dictators in their schools and they do as they please.
There are two ways to deal with them. You either go over their head, far over their head, or you hire legal counsel. Or both. I hate to get attorneys involved in almost anything but I will say that people sit up and take notice in a hurry.
Also, I know it is cold outside, but you start legally picketing as close to the school as the law allows and you large signs so the media sees it. You call the media and get them on site. The Dagger is just the start. The Aegis will be there in a heartbeat. If you don’t make them hit the pause button on this proces now before a decision is made it will be even worse.
You also have to realize that you can expect little support from the YWCA because of the position they are in.
What are the issues/concerns with the YWCA program that caused the principal to think about changing vendors?
This is an excellent question. We asked the principal the same question and have not received a clear answer. When we pressed really hard, she came up with a couple of trivial complaints that have nothing to do with the level of care given to our children. The majority of the parents currenlty using the program are completely satisfied with the YWCA and are in favor of keeping things as they currently are.
We were told because of the redistricting last year. The first seven parents that called in said they did not have a problem coming to the school, however, they were not pleased with the before and after school care… So she felt she needed to look further into it. There was a survey that went out with no eplanation. There is another artical that shows the results. The overwhelming majority was either not interested or wanted to keep the program as it was.
Oh, almost forgot.. one parent didn’t get their payment stub…
Sounds like the principal has a relative that owns a daycare business!
My wife and I attended a meeting last week with the Principal. When asked to provide documented proof of these alleged complaints that was to have been the genesis of this issue, she refused. My wife questioned her efforts to notify, en masse, the parents effected by her decision to seek ‘other options’ of the before/after school care provider. She claimed to have given the parents sufficient notice, in the school newsletter. There appears to have been a severe lack of communication, of the issue and its process, from the Principal to the parents.
Lets not forget the FARCE of a panel that was created!
This is an illustration of a growing battle between the state and the individual. Here it is being played out between the government schools and parents who send their children to these schools. The question is “Who is the authority/decision maker when it comes to our children?” The state/schools think they are and we know we are. The schools are in a position to subtley indoctrinate our children and they have 12 years to do so. The messages may not be in accord with those of the parents. Here you have a prinicpal who is acting without clearly stated reasons against the express wishes of the majority of affected parents. I wish you luck here this issue has broader implications for all of us. Our children need to see that we are the final authority and standard bearers in their lives. Loosing here will impress them that the state is rule maker/enforcer and further alienate them from a sense of their God given liberties.
Mom,
If you are the standard bearer for your offspring, why must others be depended upon for pre and post school care.
SOME of us do have to work for a living!
I do not depend on others for pre and post care but some are in a position where they must. You are missing the point. This is a battle between parents advocating for their children and an arbitrary administrator trying to do an end run around them. None of the involved parents are unhappy with the current situation but for reasons the principle has not disclosed, an effort is being made to obtain a new provider. Looks like backroom dealing and high level beaurocrat acrobatics but no transparency. These parents pay taxes too and it seems to me that they are not getting their moneys worth. And don’t assume that these “trained professionals” are the only ones with any sense or judgement. I’ve seen great teachers/principals and lousy teachers/principals. Every school district has some of both.
Mom so you are qualified to run an educational institution?????? Do you have formal training in that area? What experience do you have running a school of that size? I ask because my tax dollars fund the school and I would rather it be run by people educated and with experience in running a school.
When you have a Principal that Misrepresents the situation, withholds information, etc. It is not a matter of have the experience to run a school. AND everyone should worry when that happens! If it is happening with this issue, WHAT ELSE is going on with the school! Anyone should be concerned at the fact that a principal is not willing to keep the community up to date on activities! And they should be concerned when a principal is not willing to BACK UP what she says… If that doesn’t scare you, then you must be Ms. Langrehr!
This has nothing to do with educational background. There are several parents who utilize the Y with far more managerial experience and supervise a larger pool of employees than the ones making this decision. Not to mention, their educational degrees are from similar or more qualified institutions. The decision-making process here is about the welfare of the children and the parents right to make a choice. The school does not solely govern before and after school programs. That duty falls to Childcare Licensing. THEY are the ones who are qualified. Not some ad hoc committee.
Sorry Mom’s post made it sound like she felt like she runs the school. That is not the case. I get that you are happy with the YWCA. I do not see harm in exploring options ever. That said the option selected should heavily rely on all parents in the school giving input. The exploring of options is good because if you never explore them you might miss out on a better one you do not know about. I look at the data and I do not agree that the data is a slame dunk for not looking at options.
Alex R has it down pat! Even when teachers and parents go above the principals head, though, nothing happens.
It seems like many of you are missing the boat and are blaming this on one person because you are not getting your way. The Lion’s Den that comes home with your child and is posted on-line. told the entire school community of the results of the initial survey, PTA meetings, the committe that was formed and the meeting that was held for other daycares in the area to present. If parents would read the information that comes home, you may realize that FLES does a good job of letting parents know what happens in our school.
Also, why not let other daycares interview for our school? Don’t we want the best possible daycare choice for our children, not just the cheapest? In the past, the Y is all we had, now we have a choice to find the best. With a staff that yells at kids, does not have any type of uniform besides pj’s, and a leader who talks on the phone the entire time she is working… well, you are settling for the cheapest -NOT the best for the children. Maybe the principle is trying to do you a favor???
It is amazing all the complaining parents will do when it comes to how to run a school, but those are the same parents that refuse to join the PTA to try and find a peaceful solution instead of alerting the media and making FLES look like a crappy school. It’s not.
This is not solely about money. We are and were open to exploring other options to make sure we have what is best for our children. However, we do feel it should be voted on by the parents so that it will be a fair and unbiased decision.
I do read everything that comes home from school. Just because we are informed and read all materials does not mean that our concerns are being heard or that our children’s best interest is being considered. Also I am indeed a member of the PTA and have been for years. I volunteer time when possible to my child’s classroom and also send in various donations. I also make sure that I participate in all PTA fundraisers.
Also, I am not at all saying that FLES is a crappy school. I have had kids in that school for the past 9 years and have been very pleased. I just don’t like the way this particular issue is being handled and the outcome of this issue will indeed have a huge impact on my child and my family. Therefore, I feel that I should have more of a voice in this decision. I don’t think we are asking for anything unreasonable.
I, for one has dropped in periodically for the past 2 years. I have NEVER seen Norma gabbing on the phone! There is no issue with looking at other companies, the issue is that the MAJORITY want to keep the current company.. AND THE RESULTS of the survey BACKS IT UP! As for the information being on the lions den. It was not online last year. And not the entire year this year. She relied on it NOT to get taken out of the folder by FIVE, SIX, SEVEN YEAR OLD CHILDREN!!!! Should we put the blame on our 5,6,7 year old children for not getting it to us!!!! This year has been a ONE LINER in the middle of the paper. And that’s after the book club, koodos to whoever because that stuff is more important….When you are bored reading the first several pages of the lions den, yes you may miss it!
She was asked during the PTA meeting in september that it was not appropriate to just post in the lions den and WOULD SHE PLEASE make the Alertcall or put a letter in the childrens folder specifically regarding this situation… The PTA president made a joke of it and it was NEVER DONE… Now all of a sudden the ALERTcalls are a good idea… GIVE ME A BREAK!
And NOT EVERYONE participates in the PTA! Many parents may feel that if they don’t PAY THE DUES, then they cannot attend the meetings. And I for one due attend and there are maybe 5 people that attend out of how many children in the school…uh 500!
It is clear that “Really” is the principal of Forest Lakes Elementary trying to be incognito: why not put your name? And it is also clear by looking at her writing and by hearing accounts of her rude behavior toward her staff that this principal has no class. Good luck, parents.
I don’t see how you draw that conclusion? It is clear to me you have an axe to grind!
Where did her response have anything to do with her staff? Sounds like you definitely have an axe to grind. It could be a member of the “secret committee” who responded on the dagger. LOL
Good try “Katie,” but I am a parent in the school. A parent who is embarrassed at the actions of other parents in this community. Is this the example you want to set for your children to follow? Slinging mud and bad-mouthing the administration and teachers that work so hard to teach YOUR child?
Instead of running a daycare, the princial is working hard to run a school – that is her first priority. Shouldn’t you support that since your child goes there???
And as far as rude comments, where are you getting your information from? Do you have support to back that up? Because the last time I checked my commnets on there, I have said nothing rude about the teachers at all. Try reading the comments a little closer before mouthing off.
Finally, a reasonable person. I wouldn’t allow Norma and her crew to watch my dog!
I would not allow Langrehr or the teachers at FLES to educate my child. It’s why we relocated to another school. The change has been incredible. Teachers actually interact with my child and encourage him to expand his horizons. I’m just sorry we did not do so sooner. I don’t have a dog, but if I did, I guess Langrehr could educate him/her.
Well, that is your option… And we should not have our options taken from us. If anyone in the school wants to use Celebree, then they have that option now. They can join celebree (hotspot is celebree) and the children will be dropped off at the door… If they change the provider now, we will have no opportunity to use the YWCA. Bottom line. the surveys tell you what the majority wants, doesn’t matter what any one person says!
The issue at hand is that the parents who utilize the day care service are more than satisfied with the level of care that is being offered during the school year and the summer program. Why should a committee and a principal be given unilateral control of the decision? It is my understanding, that not only does the Y offer similar activities as the other candidates, but their cost is cheaper. In the current economic climate, why should the administration dictate the parents choice? If all factors are equal in terms of training, activities, but cost is in favor of the Y, then that is the logical choice. I am well aware that the Y staff are NOT wearing PJ’s. I could care less if they wear a uniform, as long as they treat the kids with respect and interact with them on a consistent basis. Please let’s not talk about yelling at kids, when multiple teachers at FLES have done so over the years without reprimand. The current music instructor has thrown objects at children, made grossly inappropriate remarks and gestures and still remains a teacher. Other teachers have sent kids from their class in soiled clothing to the Y to deal with when the issue happened during school time. If we want to get into this type of war, I could spend hours detailing multiple transgressions from a multitude of teachers and administrators at FLES, both under the current administration’s watch and Mrs. Chamberlain as well. To attack the staff is uncalled for. They have done nothing wrong to the parents, kids, or staff at FLES. This is clearly the principal and her croonies driving the bus. Anticipating the local politicians, the AEGIS and other media getting involved soon.
This is not a war and it is not a personality contest. The majority of those using the program, like the program! And appreciate the staff! and our children actually love the staff. It doesn’t matter who likes who. Maybe everyone should use their real name here! We are adults and want whats best for the children. The MAJORITY has shown what they want in black and white! not word of mouth! We were given the opportunity to give our feedback. We sat down with members of the panel to give feedback. A few seemed genuinely interested in taking down the right info. I can say for sure some were not because I asked what they wrote since I was talking and they were not writing. I know without a doubt that my opinion was not captured to take back to the meeting and wonder how many others were not capture properly. The principal was told and she was indifferent about it….I don’t think anybody can say that would not concern them!
Then lets look at the VP of the PTA putting on her facebook after that meeting that “she just loves coming from PTA meetings where PEOPLE ONLY COME come for the daycare issue and don’t bother to volunteer to help for the american education week”.. Does she really think that parents care if they have coffee and tea more than who is taking care of my child before and after school? Seen with MY OWN EYES! Others read it also!
Typical,
I’m not sure where you are coming from. Both of my daughters had outstanding experiences at Forest Lakes Elementary. In general, great school, great kids, great teachers, great administration, great community and parents and by far the best music teacher in the County.
Why make a change to the program if the parents and the children are happy? Seems to me that “Payola” may be involved? Follow the money! Are any of the decision makers benefitting financially?
As a FLES parent, I am horrified by the witch hunt that this dialogue has become. FLES teachers are wonderful and exemplary. I have never had a bad experience with any of them. By contrast, I would never consider enrolling my daughter in the daycare program there. I believe that FLES has received many complaints about the after school program, and those are what has led to the consideration of other providers. The leader of this program is grossly lazy and irresponsible and I have witnessed this first hand when I have been present for after-school activities. She is nasty to the teachers and has attempted to get several of them fired. Her staff is dressed inappropriately and consists mostly of teenagers who are not equipped to provide daycare. They do not serve as a good example for the elementary school children. The principal is doing the right thing by allowing parents to voice their concerns and choose other more appropriate daycare options. PTA meetings are open to all parents and teachers, and everyone is free to voice his/her opinion at the upcoming meeting, as Mrs. Langrehr indicated.
To “Typical”– you have absolutely no respect for the highly qualified teachers and administrators at FLES. If there were any truth to your allegations, those teachers would not be HCPS employees anymore. I know teachers who have lost their jobs for lesser offenses. FLES is the #1 school in the county, and the teachers are a huge reason for this. I would like to address all FLES faculty, staff, and administration when I say, I AM BEHIND YOU ALL THE WAY, AND KNOW THAT YOU HAVE THE CHILDREN’S BEST INTERESTS IN MIND!
Concerned Parent,
I don’t think the State of Maryland PTA board and Harford County PTA board agrees with you.. Maybe you should give them a call to verify if this is the route that should be taken.
MF: Doesn’t agree with me about what? Be more specific, please.
Although I have read comments in this thread from time to time since the letter was published, I would not normally consider participating–as the CEO of the YWCA Greater Baltimore–in what is clearly a public forum designed to provide opportunities for public dialogue. However, I’m writing now to ask ‘Concerned Parent’ (at 6:13pm 1/5/2012) to refrain from maligning YWCA staff. Surely, even if your preference is for another childcare provider to serve FLES, there is no need for the kind of language you’ve used.
In addition, with regard to Otto Schmidlap’s comment (1/5/2012 9:43pm), I should note that the YWCA Greater Baltimore is not a faith-based organization, and that our legal name is no longer the one he uses in his post (although it’s understandable that one might assume it is). Also, I assure ‘Give It Up!’ (1/6/2012 11:38am) that the YWCA has not sought in any fashion at any time to undermine the childcare provider selection process at FLES, nor would we even consider doing so. We are honored, to say the least, by the support of so many FLES parents who have entrusted their children to our care, and I hope that that’s not considered suspect in any way. Finally, to everyone who has been part of this dialogue, no matter what each of us may hope the outcome of the process will be, it seems clear that everyone involved one way or another will be best served by sticking to the facts and communicating in respectful ways. Thanks for reading.
While I appreciate your diplomatic suggestion, I didn’t use any obscene language in my post. Certainly my criticisms of Norma were no worse than the other things I have read in others’ comments on this article, about both Norma and FLES teachers! I understand the position you are in as the head of an organization, but if I were in your shoes, seeing negative comments from parents regarding the person in charge of the FLES YWCA might prompt an investigation from me. Teachers are subjected to drop-in observations several times a year by their superiors–principals, instructional facilitators, and county supervisors–in order to ensure that they are doing the job the county pays them to do. Maybe the YWCA should enact a similar policy (assuming it hasn’t already) to check in on their local YWCA leaders.
To concerned Parent:
It seems to me that if you were truly a “concerned parent” you would see that it seems the majority of parents are interested in keeping the current daycare. Thus, those that are performing their jobs must be to their satisfaction. I read the messages on the other artical that was written and it amazes me. It seems some parents have concerns for real reasons. Why would anyone feel the need to bash them?? If I had a child in that school, I would be just as concerned. I have much respect for our principal and thank god that this principal would listen to the parents. I don’t believe if we asked to see documentation, they would say no. I don’t believe they would disclude us from a meeting. I could be wrong. But, I don’t see it happening in my school.
47 out of 113 is not a majority. Looking at other options is healthy and should be done on a regular basis.
But 47 out of the 86 people who had an opinion IS a majority, and it is entirely reasonable not to count the folks who don’t care either way.
no the people who did not care did not return the survey. The people who did and had no opinion on that did care. Even still it is hardly a mandate to not explore other options!!!!
This is not a war with anyone. This is not a war with teachers. Everyone makes mistakes and this issue was just not handled in the best manner by the Principal. This is simply looking at the surveys which have been posted and seeing what the majority of parents want. This is ensuring that parents are able to see documents that should be available to the public. Ensuring parents are notified of important events by the best possible means. Ensuring that school committee’s are being utilized properly such as the PTA. Ensuring committee’s do not overstep their bounds. Ensuring there is transparency since it is a Public school…Ensuring a meeting like this, if credibility is in question, should not be done behind closed doors. At least letting parents know what day/time the meeting would be held instead of being secretive about it. Ensuring that if parents have a problem and they contact anyone that is in the Superintendents leadership team, gets a return call or email to let them know their concerns are being addressed. Ensuring the leadership team acknowledges the issue.
If the Y has the proper use of building forms approved by the school why would the principal assume she could discriminate against one organization for another. I would suggest a immediate meeting with the board of education.
Day care in gummint buildings? Young Women’s Christian Association front and center in the public schools system? Wow! Where are the Liberal whackadoodles on this one?
Wow, I am truly dissapointed with the comments being thrown around. What started as a trivial arguement has turned into a bashing of FLES, the teachers and the PTA. The teachers at FLES have done nothing wrong and should not even be a consideration in these posts.
As far as daycare is considered, again who would be against trying to find the best of the best for our children? Yes, I understand you may be happy with the current Y, but there COULD POSSIBLY be something better out there. With all the comments about the Y so far (gabbing on the phone, pj uniforms, yelling at the kids, etc…) I see a few red flags that need to be addressed.
Typical – I am glad you have moved your kids from FLES. As an adult, I would not want to even be associated with you.
Judy – you might want to check edline – I checked it last night and each Lion’s Den has been posted from September – January. Parents need to take the responsibility to read stuff that comes home – whether it is boring to you or not – it is still being sent home. Information is not going to be sent home on a silver platter for you.
By the way, FLES does not get money from having the Y – so the issue is not money. It HAS and ALWAYS WILL BE an issue of finding the best for our children. That’s what FLES is about – Children come first.
Really,
A one liner in a newsletter is not really sufficent for such an issue. I get single letters in my sons folders for lots of stuff like pajama day, family breakfast, info on reading, etc. market day, race for education, etc. and they are also included in the newsletter. I asked during the sept meeting if she would please put the info out there using other forms of communication to be sure the parents were being informed. One of the members of the panel made a joke of my request and it was dismissed. A parent not reading everything in a 5 page newsletter where 90% of the info doesn’t pertain to them doesn’t mean they are bad parents by no means. You certainly can’t despute that there are other forms of communication that could have been utilized very easily. Especially after it was requested in September. And now, thankfully, it has been done in the past week. My question: why did it have to get to this point before ensuring the parents were getting the info.?
sounds like the principal is posting comments on here. and for those of you unhappy with the Y and the staff…..im sure you are an unhappy person in general. all negative comments on here about the Y seem to be from someone with an agenda, hmmm…..who could that be? leave the parents alone! they are doing what they think is right for their kids. if all of you with negative comments were as concerned, then maybe you think of rephrasing your comments and not bash the parents but simply offer your concerns and offer your assistance. it doesnt seem you are as concerned as the parents actually doing something about thier concerns.
So True!
I belong to another Harford County Elementary School and this just amazes me!!!! Instead of bashing parents that are trying to make a difference, why not offer constructive suggestions. If there are issues, which I’m sure there are in all schools, why not work together to solve it. I for one do not always read our school newsletter, however, our principal puts information out using various means and that certainly DOES NOT MAKE ME A BAD PARENT..And it doesn’t mean that I neglect my child!! Thats rediculous…..It sounds like parents spoke out to try to get other forms of communication initiated. Why not just do it! Come on Now!
I see parents that are concerned about the process and are upset and others that are just interested in bashing them instead of offering suggestions that will make things better. This daycare doesn’t seem to me to be the real issue. It sounds like parents haven’t been informed, parents had concerns that were not addressed. And for any good parent, that should be a problem. If I had that issue, I would hope that I’d do the same…. Any parent that wouldn’t… SHAME ON YOU!
How do you fix it instead of bashing people that are reaching out to do what’s best for their children? Come on now! Are we are all parents that want the best for the child… unless some of the comments are from non parents, which then I would understand some of the comments made. I’m sure we all want whats best for our children…. I see many hiding behind aliases and they to me are cowards….Let’s all step back and think about the children.
Are their children in the program??? are THEY happy?? what will happen to THOSE CHILDREN with a change???? This is the issue! I would think those parents would and should speak out because it affects their babies! My daughter at 10 yrs is still my baby! Again, I hope that I would have the courage to do the same.
Personally, I don’t see where this letter to the editor has been negative towards teachers at all. I don’t see any reference to the teachers or staff….Maybe you guys need to focus on the real issue!
I hope you parents speaking out to do what’s best for your children keep your focus where it needs to be and don’t concern yourself with the negativity!
Truly, I pray for you all!
“Kathy” this has nothing to do with lack of communication. READ the stuff that comes home – be a parent! It is your responsibility to check your child’s things that come home and be informed. It will not be handed to you on a silver platter – sorry but life doesn’t work that way…
The parents who are upset about this issue are missing a big point. They WERE informed – just not to the degree they wanted. A group was formed -they are just upset because they were not a part of it. And a decision will be made – and who knows how that will make them feel? I am sure a mob is being formed as we speak if the answer isn’t want they wanted.
I would love this much enthusiasm to be generated with life’s bigger problems – world peace, hunger, etc… Imagine what we could be solved?
Some of you act like it’s a life and death situation. Yes, everyone wants what’s best for the children, but come on. Some of you are taking this way too far. I’ve read what has come home in my child’s folder, that’s my job, and things were stated very clearly. I don’t know where some of you are getting your information. Yes, I have contacted the board for further clarification and was told that Mrs. Langrehr is following protocol. AND I was also informed that she could have made the decision on her own, but she chose otherwise. Those of you who are attacking the school and staff now, you should be ashamed of your actions. Where is the positive example you are setting for your children? If you are that dissatisfied with FLES, then take your child elsewhere. I hear private schools are looking to increase their enrollment, oh wait, $ $ $. Start focusing on the more important things. From my experiences, children are adaptable, unfortunately the parents are not and it sounds like there’s a POW WOW with the YWCA and the parents on here complaining.
To M.Shreck,
I neither care that you must work, or believe the county should be in the daycare business. I further believe school administrators are focusing too much time placating whining yuppy parents, who really have it pretty good here in Harford Co.
If you don’t care, you wouldn’t be sharing your comments.
I think Norma is “Typical” because she so LOVES stirring the pot. How was the football season this year?
I
As I am reading these, I truly feel sorry for these parents. This is all about daycare….daycare people. In my opinion, the principal should decide to cancel all daycare at the school. Why would any principal want this!!! Obviously, the poster “Typical” must be the person in charge of the Y at the school. How would she know the teachers send soiled kids to the Y. Really…Typical? I can’t imagine a teacher doing that…why not send the child to the nurse…that’s if the teacher knew about it. I’m glad my kids go to a different school, I wouldn’t want my kids in the same class with the children of these parents.
From what I understand, the principal doesn’t even have to involve the parents in a decision to have before and after school care. I appreciate that she tried to involve the parents. I have read the newsletters that come home in my child’s folder and keep updated on Edline. As far as the survey, you are not seeing the entire thing and maybe those few comments that weren’t made or have been made warrent a red flag from the school. I can’t believe how much some parents have let this explode. Yes, you are making this in to a war and if it were up to me I would definitely get rid of the Y because of your negative comments and bashing. Who would want this in their school and around CHILDREN? Personally, I don’t want your negativity around my children. I say get rid of the Y and all before and after school programs to avoid this negative bashing all together! The lady that runs the Y, Norma, is financially vested in this so of course she is going to make a stink. It is also very obvious that she is “typical” in the posts above. Norma, your posts are ridiculous and disturbing. With your attitude and posts above, you shouldn’t be running any program that involves children. You made the comment that your kids are better off since being moved to another school. You obviously have a bias and dislike for Forest Lakes. So, take your business elsewhere.
I don’t care how long the Y has been there. There is obvious concerns! Maybe we should let Gerry Sendusky go back to Penn State. You don’t know all the reasons why the Y is being questioned. It doesn’t have to be political. It could be the best interest of the CHILDREN!!!!
That’s a problem. A Principal certainly should not solely be able to make this decision! This is how people get paid off. palms can be greased! And I don’t think it’s best for the children when a Principal can be paid off by a company to use their services, and there is certainly no way to prove it…Not saying that’s the case here and not saying that it isn’t. Frankly if that’s the way the Education system in the county is set up, then it should be changed!
As a parent, I would like to know why parents are charged different rates for the same allotted time?
Great question! Would love the facts to back that one up. Maybe there was a secret committee formed to figure out prices for the Y.
If this truly was the case, why wouldn’t you ask them? Because if it was true and you asked them, I would bet you have your answer.
I’ll be sure to ask them if there is a SAM that’s a parent of the Y and if so, will be sure that they get back to you on it. The parents that have participated in these articles have backed up their info. maybe other accusations should also be backed up! Come on people!
Just wanted to thank the Principal and the panel for voting to keep the YWCA for our children. Ms. Langrehr did a great job addressing everyone in her message this evening to come together as a community and heal. The group of parents that came together to advocate for our children did not intend for this involve teachers, the YWCA staff, etc. In my opinion, they should not have been brought into this at all. For the staff of the YWCA and the teachers of Forest Lakes Elementary, I hope you know that many of us do appreciate the work you do and the support you give to our children.
Judy was exploring options so bad? Now you have further validation that the YWCA was the best program, for the needs of the community, availible. I agree that some people need to appoligize for their demonizing of the people involved in the process. The unintended consequence is that you may not get free and open dialouge in the future.
CDEV,
Nobody said exploring options was bad. My issue was not exploring the options at all. It was not about the teachers, or Norma, etc. If you read the letter from the parents to the editor, it was about the process and concerns parents had. And about the survey results.
I actually had to stop reading comments because it was very upsetting to see where this was going. The few times I did go back to read, I posted comments to try and change the focus to the process. As I said in my message “This is not a war”. It seems as if many had their opionions and it was getting personal to alot of people. I’m not faulting anyone of them for their opinions, because everyone has a right to theirs. I do wish the teachers and Norma were not involved because I don’t think they deserved it. And I do believe if people are going to put accusations out there, they should back it up.
I am happy that the results turned out as they did and hope that everyone that had certain comments that were made can do as Langrehr said in her meeting last night, we need to heal now. I Don’t know who that battle online was, but I hope they can see that it’s done and we should work together to ensure the YWCA is all that it can be. It is obvious that FLES has a group of good parents that are involved and that truly care. And maybe this was actually a good thing that will make FLES be a stronger school.
and CDEV, my name was posted on all my comments!
Judy many people said that exploring options was not OK and that anyone who wanted to do so was just wrong.
CDEV,
Respectfully, I think you are mistaken. You know, I think it is best for many on here to just agree to disagree! We need to move on from this. I will continue to advocate for my child and try to make a change to this process so it doesn’t have to come to this in the future.
I did not hear anyone say that exploring options was wrong. It is good to look at other options. Looking was not the problem here. There were concerns about a decision already being made. Whether it was or wasn’t, you and I do not know for sure and never will! And keep in mind, this is the impression that many parents came to on their own!
I heard parents with problems about the manner they were being informed. I, in particular had a problem with people that were put on the panel for reasons that I have made clear previoulsy to the Principal, etc. And I had legitimate reasons for my concern. I don’t know those people personally, they could be lovely people. I just know that by what I saw and heard, it scared me! You know as well as I do with things as they are these days, you hear people/companies getting kickbacks, etc. Not saying that is the case here. I had to ensure that this was not happening…
If you have a group of people that on their own come to the same conclusion, there is reason for concern! Its funny that many parents came to the same conclusion without talking and when we realized that we were thinking the same thing, that’s when we came together and voiced our concerns. And there is nothing wrong with that. And if we feel they are not being addressed, then we had to do something. This involved our children directly! Very sorry if you don’t agree.
Hopefully you won’t have an issue in the future where you are worried that someone may have an agenda where your child is directly affected and hopefully, if god forbid that you do, you will have somewhere to go if you feel your concerns are not being addressed!
Judy, You and others accused the principal of being paid off!
“Also, the concerns given by the principal are not reason enough to change the current before/after school program.”
-Shannon Forte
” I hope tons of people respond to this message because it is not right! They are messing with our sons and daughters lives…”
-Judy Schrek
“The majority of the parents currenlty using the program are completely satisfied with the YWCA and are in favor of keeping things as they currently are.”
-Gina LaRoque
“My wife questioned her efforts to notify, en masse, the parents effected by her decision to seek ‘other options’ of the before/after school care provider.”
-Brian
“Why make a change to the program if the parents and the children are happy? Seems to me that “Payola” may be involved? Follow the money! Are any of the decision makers benefitting financially?”
-Cindy R
Judy your comments from the begining have been slanderous, libelous and belitteling. You where itching for a fight. Honestly you could be sued for libel as you have no evidence to support your assertion the principal was taking a brib!
I am glad my kid does not go to school with yours because I would be embarassed to admit we live in the same community where you bully school staff into getting what you want!
Judy, I am sure you are glad about the results of the vote – you ended up with what you wanted. However, the way in which this entire process was brought about (The Dagger article, the comments thrown back and forth) was not necessary.
As a result, our school community suffered. How would you know about the speech Mrs. Langrehr gave and healing? You left the PTA meeting right after the announcement was made – you didn’t hear her heartfelt speech. Talk about rude? You were one of the people who needed to hear it the most! It took guts for the parents who stood up at the meeting and aplogized for what happenend. Oh, but you missed that, you left.
As a parent who doesn’t use the Y – I’m not worried about that program. It is what it is. But I do care about the school community and I think it will take time for many people to trust each other again.
And your comment about “this being a good thing to make FLES stronger?”
How can you say that? All I can say is that you didn’t leave a good impression of yourself.
You can thank others for the horrible comments back and forth. My comments stated what happened. My conscience is clean! There were many parents that wanted to go to the media on this. And if you have a problem with my leaving, that’s a shame!
I certainly do not owe you or anyone else an explanation for my leaving a meeting. If you must know, I had a committment that I had to meet and I stayed to the last minute I was able. I addressed the Board of Education meeting on monday evening and when I got home, I sent a letter to Cindy at the Dagger which was posted this morning.
And If you think this was done just for parents to get their way, you really just don’t understand the issue!! As I have said many times here, ‘this is not a war!” Many of the parents involved were not happy about the mudslinging that went on regarding teachers, Y staff, etc. and to those people, I am sorry that they had to get caught up in this because they didn’t deserve it! However, it was not me and I really don’t believe it was anyone in our group that put those messages out there! Unfortunately those comments were anonymous just as yours is. anyone could have put those messages out there to start problems which is sad!
I had no problem with anyone knowing my name and that my messages were from me simply because I had / have nothing to hide!
Hopefully Judy has learned a lesson here. I, for one, hope not to hear from her again in the future!
Next time,
I learned a big lesson. I learned how to advocate for my child. As did many other parents!
I swore that I wasn’t going to post on this topic again. However, I cannot in good conscience let Judy take all of this verbal abuse without coming to her defense.
Judy left the meeting last night for a very valid reason. She had a time commitment to meet. Also she has the right to advocate for her child just like everyone else. She should not be attacked or belittled for speaking up for what she believes is right.
I for one am glad that last night is over. Mrs. Langrehr was correct in urging us to move forward and reunite. This should be easy to do since we all just want what is best for our children, no matter which side of this issue you were on.
Thanks Gina. I guess I’m “the leader” hahhaha
I know that what I/we did was right and if it were just to get my/our way, I would not have bothered to go meet with the Board of Education to ask for change in the process! I was up front and honest with everything and if some don’t like the truth then maybe they should review their own actions.
And good did come out of this. The PTA council is making changes and hopefully the Board of Education will also!
And really, these people that can sling their comments without revealing themselves obviously have something to hide! Because if they didn’t hide, then I don’t think you would have seen the mudslinging on here that you did by people hiding. I believe they would have been more careful with their comments to ensure what they put out there was actually the truth.
Ms.LaCorque
Oh, great keeper of the Judy, why not tell us where she scurried off to. Surely it wasn’t a “secret”. Perhaps benefit would be gained by the whole story or else butt out and stick a LaCorque in it.
Chumley,
You can feel free to read my posts and you will see where I scurried off to. And it cracks me up that you feel the need to know where I go!
I already knew. It cracks me up to hear that you left a meeting that was covering the information exact that you felt to be “secret” in order to go elsewhere and bash Mrs. Langrehr. Way to go. You’re a real winner.
After all the hatred over this non-educational topic, I hope the “leader” of group has the class to send the principal an apology letter. That “leader” is not regarded highly in the FLES community and needs to make amends!!
TO SAM:
Don’t know who you mean by the “leader”. I really wish if someone had something to say to anyone in particular… just say it! I coordinated the comments from the parents and if you are referring to me. I do not owe anyone an appology. I did not say anything here that I did not say directly to Ms. Langrehr or other members of the Board of Education. I did not hide my name on any of my comments.
I told Ms. Langrehr months ago that a group of parents may go to the media on this. I told her before I went to her boss that I was going to do that because I had serious concerns about a committee. And she didn’t seem to me when I told her that she had a problem with that. Nothing was done behind her back or anyone elses. I have been pretty straight forward with my feelings and the things that I stated happened, truly did happen!
Because the decision came out the way we really wanted, doesn’t change the fact that the concerns we had are still concerns. I had reason for concern and didn’t see it being addressed, as did other parents! That didn’t all change because of the decision! I addressed the Board of Education on Monday evening asking them to review the process and make changes. We were not just a group of parents trying to get our way… We were a group of parents with concerns about the process and that has not changed. The process needs to be fixed. And it certainly should not be allowed that the Principal can make a decision like this on their own if they choose.
I thank Ms. Langrehr and the panel for deciding to keep the YWCA. I was very happy to hear her speach..But I do not owe her an appology… I don’t know if we did not speak out if the decision would have been the same and neither do you. Now, as she said, we all need to heal and I don’t see where you are doing so.
I will continue to do what’s best for my child as all parents I would hope will do the same! And I will be advocating for change regarding this issue so parents don’t have to feel this way or go through a process like this again. If you don’t agree with that, Sorry, we can agree to disagree!
Judy, sounds like we could use you to help “oust” the principal at John Archer. Now THERE is a serious problem that needs addressed and a principal who does not care about students, parents or staff.
I am sorry you had to experience this, i have had problems with Aspen myself. Forrest Lakes Elementary in Oldsmar is the worst school I have ever been evolved with. The principal, Karen Aspen has been known to bully parents, discriminate against children with special needs, and has proven time and again that she only cares about her own agenda and not the well being of the children in her school. She has no control over her staff, in many meetings she has been talked over and interrupted while she nervously tries to take control of the conversation. This is the kind of principal that our Pinellas County Schools can do without.
This is very interesting to read! We are not from Harford County, and had the misfortune of sending our middle child to Forest Lakes for two years beginning in Mrs. Langhrer’s first year there. It was by far the worst elementary school experience we ever had (we have lived in five states) and thought very little of the principal who really cared about nothing but her own ego. We actually sold our house and moved to another school in the same district, just to save our youngest the pain of that school! We are very happy with the new school, and thankful every day to be out of there. We called the superintendent multiple times to voice our concerns and never were contacted in response. Our tax dollars “hard” at work! Looks like very little has changed……..